Description
These Lemon Cheesecake Bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, tangy lemon cream cheese filling. Perfectly baked and chilled to set, they make a delightful dessert with a refreshing citrus twist, topped with whipped cream and lemon slices for extra zing.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) to prepare for baking the crust and the cheesecake bars.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Form Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan, ensuring an even layer for the crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until it is slightly golden. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition to fully combine.
- Mix Flavorings: Stir in lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until evenly blended into the filling.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust and spread it evenly using a spatula or spoon.
- Bake Bars: Place the pan back into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The center should be set but still slightly jiggle when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let them set firmly.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut the cheesecake into squares. Top each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of lemon if desired for garnish.
- Enjoy: Serve your refreshing lemon cheesecake bars chilled and savor the creamy citrus delight.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Do not overbake the bars; slight jiggle in the center indicates perfect doneness.
- Chilling time is important for the bars to set properly and develop flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best lemon flavor.
- Graham cracker crust can be pressed firmly to prevent crumbling when sliced.
